French Open champion Mirra Andreeva was far more convincing in a 6-4 6-0 victory over Ukraine's Elina Svitolina later on Monda
Teenager Andreeva, who beat Sabalenka in the 2025 Indian Wells final, was ruthless against Svitolina. The Russian reeled off seven games in a row against the wayward Svitolina, backed by her impressive backhand.
Andreeva saved all six break points she faced - four of which came in the final game - and hit nine winners to 12 unforced errors in a 77-minute victory.
Elsewhere, Britain's Cameron Norrie beat Australian James Duckworth 7-5 6-0 to reach the Stockholm Open second round. Norrie will face top seed Taylor Fritz next as he continues his preparations for this month's Davis Cup Finals.
Fellow Briton Toby Samuel claimed a 6-3 6-2 win over Leo Borg - son of 11-time Grand Slam singles champion Bjorn - at the same event.